Abstract:
Nano-indentation, is a latest developed technique used for the measuring of the surface mechanical properties of materials, especially polymers. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene has been used as a biomaterial in total joint replacements due to its desirable properties. It has high toughness, high abrasion resistance and low coefficient of friction as compared to other polymeric materials used for the same purpose. Several studies have been conducted to improve the mechanical properties of UHMWPE material for use in joint arthroplasty. The problem that widely encounter is the debris, which forms from the wear of UHMWPE material, reacts with the bone tissue causing osteolysis and early damage of the implant. Different methods of crosslinking have been explored to enhance wear properties of UHMWPE which include radiation crosslinking. However, this method has negative impact on the mechanical properties since the doses of radiation produces free radicals which causes oxidation. This problem is addressed by achieving crosslinking in the presence of antioxidants. Vitamin E has proved to be a best candidate for this cause. Studies further showed that during cross linking, vitamin E reacts with the radicals, which reduces the crosslink density. Crosslinking using peroxides in the presence of tea polyphenols is recently explored in search for more competitive anti-oxidants which results in improved wear resistance and high crosslink density as compared to vitamin E. Knowledge of surface mechanical properties are important parameters of interest for material in applications involving tribological contacts, ultimately leading us to the understanding of the wear behavior of the material. Surface mechanical properties cannot be precisely measured by conventional mechanical testing. This study, explored the use of Nano indentation to determine the surface mechanical properties of both, a peroxide cross-linked UHMWPE samples and uncross linked UHMWPE sample. The indentation results showed improvement in the surface mechanical properties of the cross-linked UHMWPE samples.
Page(s):
0-0
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Sixth International Conference on Sustainability in Process Industries (SPI) 19-20 Octover 2022 (Book of Abstracts), Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2022
Keywords:
antioxidant
,
antioxidant
,
antioxidant
,
Nanoindentation
,
Wear behavior
,
Crosslinking
,
Ultrahigh molecular weight Polyethylene